Graduate Pre-Screening FAQ

Who needs to submit a pre-screening?

We require that all applicants to the CWRU Music Department who intend to major in music or any student who wants to be considered for the Music Achievement Award submit pre-screening audition videos. If you will not be majoring in music but would like to audition for an ensemble as an extracurricular activity please visit that ensemble’s page for specific details. Ensembles are found here.

What pieces should I play for my pre-screening?

Instrumentalists and pitched percussionists should upload two video files of solo pieces of contrasting style. You should also upload a third video showcasing three scales of your choice in two or three octaves. Please speak the name/type of scale before you play each one.

Unpitched percussionists should perform and upload one concert solo and one rudimental solo.

Vocalists should upload two video files of contrasting solo pieces. At least one of the selections should be in a foreign language. Piano accompaniment must be live if used, but it is not required.

How do I know what kind of video to upload, and what file format should it be?

The Decision Desk uploader accepts the following audio/video/document formats:

Audio – mp3, ogg, m4a, aiff, wma, wav, aac

Video – mpeg, mpg, mp4, ogg ,mov, avi, wmv, m4v, vob

Document – txt, rtf, doc, docx, pdf, xls, xlsx, sib, mus

Image – jpeg, png, gif, jpg

We do NOT have file size restrictions. You can upload any resolution you would like. We do not recommend uploading uncompressed audio (wav) or video (avi), as this will be a time intensive process for you. While HD videos can be compressed down, SD (640×480 or similar) is best.

Once uploaded all audio is compressed to a minimum of 128 kbps and videos are compressed to SD 640×480 (44.1khz, 2000kbps bit-rate).

What type of equipment can I use to make my video?

You can use any device that records video of the filetypes listed in Question 1. Possible devices are an iPod, iPhone, other cellphone, some digital still cameras, a handheld camcorder, Flip camera, etc. We are more interested in your musical skills than the quality of your video.

Who should I contact if I experience any problems with the uploading process or using Decision Desk?

Please visit the Decision Desk Support page or email support@decisiondesk.com.Once you have started the application process you will find a “help” tab on the left side of the screen. You can click on that for live chat or to submit a support request.

Who should I contact for questions about repertoire choice, audition dates, scholarships, or scheduling visits?

When will I be contacted about the results of my pre-screening audition?

We will contact you no later than two weeks before your requested live audition date.

Can I submit another set of pre-screening materials if I do not pass my first pre-screening?

Yes, as long as it is submitted before the deadline.

What kinds of things are you looking for in a pre-screening audition?

We are looking for excellent musicianship. This includes good intonation, accurate rhythm, dynamic contrast, competent technique, etc. We are not looking for a professionally produced video.

Can I upload a video of the musical I recently sang in?

You can upload any materials you feel would benefit your application, but be sure to meet the minimum requirements first.

Instrumentalists and pitched percussionists should upload two video files of solo pieces of contrasting style. You should also upload a third video showcasing three scales of your choice in two or three octaves. Please speak the name/type of scale before you play each one.

Unpitched percussionists should perform and upload one concert solo and one rudimental solo.

Vocalists should upload two video files of contrasting solo pieces. At least one of the selections should be in a foreign language. Piano accompaniment must be live.

I would prefer to travel to Cleveland and audition in person, rather than submit pre-screening materials. Can I do this?

Unfortunately, no. Everyone is required to submit a pre-screening.

I cannot travel to Cleveland to audition and I understand that scholarship funds will be awarded only for in-person auditions. Would it be possible to use my pre-screening audition to be considered for admission as a music major?

No. The pre-screening is just the first round of the audition process. We need to hear each applicant in person for a final decision.

I want to audition for the Rock and Popular Music Institute. Should I submit a video of me playing guitar in my rock band?

We understand that Rock and Pop instruments are different from our usual auditions, but you should still conform to the standard instrumental audition requirements. However, you may upload any additional videos that you think might help us get to know you and your musical ability. Just be sure to meet the minimum requirements first.

Who will review and evaluate my pre-screening materials?

The applied teacher for your instrument, and faculty from your choice of major. Reviewers are a mix of faculty from both CIM and CWRU.

Will I receive any comments about my performance on my pre-screening audition?

No, you will simply be invited for a live audition or we will not recommend you for admission.

What other materials can I submit? Do you want letters of recommendation? A resume?

Letters of recommendation are not required for the pre-screening process. You may submit a resume at the file upload stage of your pre-screening submission if you feel that it provides information not gathered in your University application or in your pre-screening. However, it is not required.